Summer Olympics 2012: American Basketball Stars Who Will Shine in 2016

Team USA appears to have put its 2004 disappointment in the rear-view mirror after two consecutive gold medals in the Summer Olympics.

The United States defeated Spain in the gold-medal game this summer, 107-100, using its offensive firepower, advantage in rebounding and ability to create turnovers.

But one man who may not be there for Team USA in 2016 is Kobe Bryant. He's hinted at retirement soon and he would be 37 years old if he stuck around for another four years.

So which players will pick up the slack in 2016?

Here's a look.

Derrick Rose, PG

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Team USA already has a few stunning point guards in Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Russell Westbrook, but you'd have to think Derrick Rose could weasel his way on to the team in 2016.

In four seasons in the NBA, Rose has averaged 21.0 points, 6.8 assists and 3.9 rebounds while shooting 46 percent from the floor, appearing to get better every year.

Rose wasn't able to join Team USA this summer due to injury, but in four years time the 2010-2011 MVP should be ready to make an impact for the Americans.

Anthony Davis, PF

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Anthony Davis, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, already showed shades of becoming a big-time player this summer with Team USA.

Davis made 11-of-17 shots in the 2012 Summer Games and averaged 2.7 rebounds despite playing just 7.6 minutes per game.

Davis, who figures to be an elite shot-blocker at the next level, also notched a few blocks in his seven games on the floor.

In four years time, Davis could be a beast.

Dwight Howard, C

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Who would you be most excited to see in 2016?

Derrick RoseAnthony DavisDwight HowardSubmit Votevote to see results

Who would you be most excited to see in 2016?

Derrick Rose

40.6%

Anthony Davis

39.6%

Dwight Howard

19.8%

Total votes: 106

Dwight Howard missed the Olympics this year due to back surgery, but he's the best center in the NBA and he would have given Team USA another dynamic in the post this summer.

Howard, despite all the turmoil in Orlando, averaged 20.6 points, a league-leading 14.5 rebounds and 2.1 blocks last season with the Magic. He's a force on both sides of the ball and may be needed even more in 2016, given defensive stopper Tyson Chandler will be 33 years old by that time.

It's scary to imagine Team USA with Howard in 2016. They could be even better than they were this summer.